Scarlets attack coach Mark Jones has been drafted in as part of interim Wales coach Rob Howley's coaching team during the Six Nations.

Jones had already agreed to be part of the set-up during their two-Test tour to Japan in June, but with head coach Warren Gatland stepping down temporarily to concentrate on his Lions duties, the Welsh board came to an agreement with the Scarlets for the Six Nations. It allows the former Wales wing to come on board early as backs coach and complete a coaching line-up that also features Robin McBryde, Shaun Edwards and Neil Jenkins

"Mark is an important addition to the coaching team," Howley said. "He has played the game at the highest level and developed his coaching skills during his time with the Scarlets. He is a 'hands-on coach' and understands how our environment works, which is important leading into the tournament."

Jones made his debut for Wales in 2001 against England at the Millennium Stadium and went on to win 47 caps. He also featured in the 2003 and 2007 World Cups and scored 13 Test tries.

"I am looking forward to this exciting opportunity for me to develop further as a coach," Jones said. "It will help me to explore new ideas and gain wider experience that I hope will, in turn, benefit my full-time role with the Scarlets region."